How to Camp as a Complete Beginner (Even If You’ve Never Slept Outside Before)

So, you're ready to try camping for the first time — maybe you're craving time in nature, want to escape your routine, or you're simply curious what all the buzz is about. As a professional survivalist who’s helped hundreds of beginners take their first step into the wild, I can tell you this: camping doesn’t have to be complicated — but it does require the right mindset, preparation, and gear.

In this guide, I’ll walk you through how to camp as a complete beginner. You’ll avoid rookie mistakes, feel more confident, and actually enjoy your first night outdoors.

Why Camping Feels Overwhelming at First

If you’ve spent hours Googling gear lists, watching YouTube videos about tents, or reading Reddit threads that make you feel like you need to be Bear Grylls just to make a cup of coffee outdoors, you’re not alone. Most of that advice is aimed at seasoned backpackers. It’s too much, too soon.

The truth is: beginner camping should be simple. One night. One kit. One goal.
feel safe, warm, and comfortable enough to want to do it again.

Step 1: Choose the Right First Trip

Don’t go big. Go local.
You don’t need to drive 6 hours into the mountains or hike 15 miles into the wilderness. Your first camping trip should be:

• Close to home (within 1–2 hours)
• At a designated campsite (with flat ground, water, and fire rings)
• Just one night

Look for beginner-friendly campgrounds or even state parks that allow car camping. This way, you can bail if needed — but chances are, you won’t want to.

Step 2: Use a Pre-Built Beginner Camping Kit

Here’s a secret most people learn the hard way: buying random gear from Amazon doesn’t mean it will work well together.

As a survivalist, I’ve seen people pack the wrong sleeping bag, forget their stove, or bring gear that’s too heavy or hard to use. That’s why we created the 7th Step Starter Kit, a fully packed, field-tested camping gear kit made for first-timers.

It covers your core survival needs:

• Shelter: Lightweight, easy-to-pitch tent
• Warmth: Proper sleeping bag and sleeping pad
• Cooking: Simple stove and fuel, mess kit
• Lighting: Headlamp (with charge!)
• Safety: First aid, emergency whistle, and more

It’s gear that works, without the guesswork.

Step 3: Focus on the Basics (Ignore the Rest)

You don’t need fancy gadgets or freeze-dried meals for your first trip. Focus on what matters:

• Sleep well: Bring clothes for layering, a beanie, and warm socks.
• Stay dry: Waterproof tarp or groundsheet under your tent.
• Eat hot food: Bring simple meals — instant rice, ramen, oats, or even canned chili.
• Keep it light: Don’t overpack. You’re not crossing Alaska.

Step 4: Test Your Gear Before You Go

Before you ever leave the house, do this:

• Set up your tent in the yard or living room
• Boil water with your stove
• Pack your bag and lay out every item

This single step builds confidence and prevents panic on your first night out.

Bonus Tips from a Pro:

• Plan for emergencies: Have signal, a charged phone, and someone who knows your location.
• Bring toilet paper — trust me.
• Skip alcohol: It can affect your body temp and judgment.
• Don’t forget bug spray and a power bank.

The Seventh Step Guarantee

Camping should leave you feeling stronger, calmer, and more connected to the world around you, not overwhelmed, freezing, or covered in regret.

With the Seventh Step Starter Kit, you don’t need to figure it all out alone. It’s the same gear I’d give my own family before their first night outdoors — handpicked from real backcountry experience, packed to remove the stress, and tested where it matters: in the wild.

Ready to Go From Curious to Capable?

• Get the Starter Kit
• Choose your first trip
• Test your gear
• Experience the outdoors like a pro
• You don’t need to be an expert — you just need to take the first step.

Take the Guesswork Out of Your First Trip

You don’t need to waste time researching gear, second-guessing your checklist, or learning the hard way.

The Seventh Step Starter Kit was built to give first-time campers everything they need — tested gear, packed light, and designed for real comfort on night one.

→ Get Your Starter Kit
Start your journey with the right tools and walk into the wild with confidence.

Because your first step should feel like the right one.